Hypercalcemia

Overview

Hypercalcemia is a condition where the level of calcium in the blood is beyond the normal range and it can lead to weakening of bones, formation of kindey stones and affects the functions of heart and brain

Signs and Symptoms

Abdominal pain, Vomiting, Constipation, Polyuria, Polydipsia, Anorexia, Weight loss, Lethargy, Weakness, Hypertension, Confusion, Pyrexia, Renal stones, Renal failure

Common Causes

Malignancy (most common), Primary hyperparathyroidism, Sarcoidosis, Vitamin D intoxication, Thyrotoxicosis

Risk Factors

Malignancy, Use of thiazide diuretics, Immobilization

Investigation Techniques

Blood test, Parathyroid hormone level, Electrolytes (chloride, potassium, phosphate), Protein electrophoresis, Chest X-rays, CT scan, Mammogram, Isotope bone scan

Treatment and Prevention

Calcitonin (Miacalcin) , Calcimimetics , Bisphosphonates , Denosumab , Prednisone , IV fluids and diuretics